The Willy Brandt School of Public Policy at the University of Erfurt, Germany's oldest public policy institution, is a unique blend of tradition and modernity. Established in 2002 and becoming an autonomous research entity in 2008, the School is a hub for interdisciplinary, practical, and global education. It aims to equip the next generation of policy-makers to navigate the intricate political landscape of today, a vision that aligns with Willy Brandt's foresight nearly four decades ago. Brandt predicted a new civilization marked by unprecedented challenges but also new solutions, rooted in global interconnectedness and collective action.

The School's curriculum is an amalgamation of proven methods from North American public policy education and a unique European perspective, given its central location at the crossroads of the West and East. This results in a teaching approach that is trans-disciplinary, globally focused, and tightly interwoven with practical application. It not only acknowledges the rising influence of the global South but also respects the enduring legacy of the global North.

The Brandt School is not confined to established democracies or elite circles. It covers a broad spectrum of policy environments, from state governance to non-state sectors, and from conflict zones to conservation areas. Rather than merely imparting technical skills, the School aims to provide its diverse student body with a comprehensive analytical toolkit. This enables them to understand and engage with the underlying mechanisms of political, social, and economic processes across various settings. In doing so, it transcends traditional educational boundaries, preparing its students for a world that is increasingly complex and interconnected.